Seized vehicles used to train young mechanics in Cumbria

Seized vehicles in Cumbria are being used to help train future mechanics, with 100 students at Carlisle College already benefiting from the initiative.

Police Fire and Crime Commissioner David Allen recently visited Carlisle College alongside Cumbria Police’s Roads Policing Unit to see how the vehicles were being used to enhance the learning experience and provide practical skills for mechanical students.

Enhancing student education

Inspector Jack Stabler of Cumbria Police’s Roads Policing Unit is optimistic about the project’s positive impact on students.

"These vehicles are being put to a positive use in helping to enhance the learning of mechanical students and we’re actively working to role this project out further, to Furness College and others.

"It was great to see the students’ work first-hand, gaining practical experience of working on cars and they were extremely positive about the benefits to their own education," Inspector Stabler said.

The seized cars allow students to get hands-on experience in their training, bridging the gap between classroom lessons and real-world applications.

Saving money while supporting careers

The scheme also offers financial benefits for local colleges, reducing the costs usually associated with sourcing vehicles for training purposes.

Cumbria’s Police Fire and Crime Commissioner David Allen said: "I’m delighted that through my office we have been able to pay for the transport of these vehicles to Carlisle College, this is helping the next generation of mechanics and vehicle technicians learn on the job and in the process saving the college a lot of money."